He said: "It's great that EDF Energy has responded to our call to provide help to people this winter by offering free insulation. We want to see the other major suppliers follow suit before it's too late.

"With even the cheapest energy deals now more than Â£1,000 a year on average, it's vital that energy companies do all they can to help customers cut their bills and keep warm this winter," he added.

Those looking to apply for the scheme should do so before its close date of March 31 2012.